Rep. Panetta Authors and Introduces LOOTER Act to Help Stop Crime During Natural Disasters
Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) authored and introduced the bipartisan Law On Offender Transgressions during Emergencies and Recovery (LOOTER) Act of 2025. This bill would establish federal criminal penalties for theft committed during declared natural disasters. Co-leading this bipartisan legislation are Reps. Aaron Bean (FL-04), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), and Troy Nehls (TX-22).
Natural disasters often bring out the best in community resilience, but tragically, they also expose people to exploitation. From recent deadly tornadoes in the South and Midwest, to the Palisades and Eaton wildfires in California, there is a disturbing and consistent pattern of looting in the wake of mass displacement and destruction. When looting and larceny surge, public safety is compromised, and recovery is delayed. That’s a nationwide problem.
California’s 19th Congressional District, which Rep. Panetta represents, has experienced the destructive impacts of wildfires, floods, and other disasters. Rep. Panetta has long advocated for strong disaster preparedness and recovery policies. The LOOTER Act builds on those efforts to safeguard residents from criminal exploitation.
“As a former prosecutor, I’ve seen firsthand how looting during emergencies only deepens the suffering of disaster victims,” said Rep. Panetta. “The LOOTER Act would ensure that those who prey on communities during times of crisis face serious consequences under federal law. Our bipartisan legislation is critical to better protecting disaster-stricken communities, supporting our local law enforcement partners, and sending a clear message that if you loot during a disaster, you will be held accountable.”
“When disaster strikes, you should not have to choose between evacuating for your safety or safeguarding your property. This bill sends a clear message: We will not tolerate the exploitation of natural disaster victims. I’m proud to join Congressman Panetta in ensuring looters who prey on victims think twice before ever committing such heinous crimes,” said Rep. Bean.
“During natural disasters, our communities are vulnerable—not just to the forces of nature, but also to the few bad actors who seek to exploit tragedy for personal gain. The LOOTER Act is about protecting our neighbors when they are at their weakest and holding criminals accountable,” said Rep. Suozzi. “I support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation because it ensures that in times of crisis, law and order will still prevail. We must send a clear message: If you steal from families during their darkest hour, you will be held responsible.”
“Texas’s 22nd Congressional District is prone to natural disasters that have had serious effects on our communities and lives,” said Rep. Nehls. “When Hurricane Harvey hit, I served as Sheriff of Fort Bend County, Texas, and know all too well how natural disasters leave people and their property vulnerable, especially to crime. This bill ensures accountability for those who take advantage of disaster and ensures justice for those who might fall victim to these low-life crimes. Thank you to Congressman Panetta for leading this important effort.”
The LOOTER Act would amend Title 18 of the U.S. Code to create clear federal penalties for larceny offenses committed in areas under a federal disaster declaration. Under the bill, petit larceny during a disaster would be punishable by up to one year in prison, while grand larceny would carry penalties of up to five years.
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